For generics during the "Donut Hole," what percentage must patients pay until they reach catastrophic coverage?

In the context of Medicare's coverage phases, specifically during the "Donut Hole," patients are required to pay a certain percentage of their medication costs after they reach the initial coverage limit. The Donut Hole refers to the coverage gap where beneficiaries must pay out-of-pocket for a larger share of their medication expenses.

For generic medications during the Donut Hole, the percentage that patients are responsible for is indeed 35%. This figure is applicable under the law and reflects the changes implemented through the Affordable Care Act, which aimed to gradually reduce the costs incurred by patients in the Donut Hole over time.

As patients continue to pay this percentage for their medications, they are working towards reaching the catastrophic coverage phase, where their costs significantly decrease. Understanding this percentage is vital for beneficiaries, as it helps them plan for their healthcare expenditures during this particular coverage gap.